Chongqing to Lhasa Train

The Chongqing to Lhasa train Z223 departs Chongqingxi Railway Station at 21:53 every other day and arrives at Lhasa Railway Station at 07:41 on the 3rd day. This train runs alternately with the Chengdu to Lhasa train Z322 every other day. The Chongqing to Lhasa Train is a vital overland gateway to Tibet, as long as 3,055 km, and takes around 33:48 hours, equally as important as the Chengdu Lhasa Train. In addition, the train passes through five provinces and cities, including Chongqing, Sichuan, Gansu, Qinghai, and Tibet Autonomous Region. There are 8 stations in total, and the stay time at each station ranges from 4 to 28 minutes. On the way back, the Lhasa to Chongqing train Z224 leaves at 19:00 and arrives at Chongqingxi Railway Station at 06:19 on the third day. Train Z224 and Lhasa to Chengdu Z324 train also run alternately on alternate days.

Chongqing, also known as "Mountain City" or "River City", is one of the four municipalities directly under the Central Government, along with Shanghai, Beijing, and Tianjin. In addition, as the confluence of the Yangtze River and the Jialing River, Chongqing has unique mountain and water scenery. Before traveling to Tibet, tourists can take a cruise to visit this hilly city along the Yangtze River Three Gorges. The Chongqing to Lhasa train is one of the most favorite routes to Tibet. If tourists prefer to enjoy the Yangtze River cruise trip first and later move from Chongqing to Tibet, this railway route is recommended to you.

As the train sets off from Chongqing, be prepared to be captivated by the ever-changing scenery. Marvel at the emerald peak of Yuzhu, admire the tranquil waters of the Lhasa River, and behold the vast expanses of grassland along with the Grand Sichuan-Tibet Railway.

This guide provides you with an essential guide to train travel from Chongqing to Lhasa, including train ticket prices, distance, routes, attractions along the way, and more...

Chongqing to Lhasa Train Route Map

Chongqing - Lhasa Train Schedules and Tickets（2026）

The Chongqing to Lhasa Z223 train departs every other day. There are three ticket prices: hard seat ¥327.5, hard sleeper ¥627.5, and soft sleeper ¥997.5. In addition, the return train is Z224 train and also departs every other day. Since the Z224 train stops at Nagchu Station, the total journey time will be about an hour and a half longer.

*Note:The actual arrival and departure time of train, please refer to the information on your ticket, or consult your travel consultant.

About ticket price:

The ticket prices above are the net price. In reality, as traveling in Tibet is so popular that the actual ticket demand far exceeds the supply, in-bound, and out-bound tourists have to pay more than the net price to buy tickets. The actual price is subject to market fluctuation. In some cases, the actual price could be double than the net price. Despite the uncertainty and difficulty in purchasing train tickets, Travel Tibet China would manage to book tickets at a reasonable price ( usually 20 percent lower than the market price) and promise to offer free service for it. If tourists only want to buy train tickets via TTC without intending to travel to Tibet, TTC will have to charge a small amount of service fee.

Chongqing to Lhasa Train Z223 Schedule (2026)

Lhasa to Chongqing Train Z224 Schedule (2026)

Which Seat Class to should I take, Soft Sleeper, Hard Sleeper or Hard Seat?

Compared with Hard Sleeper, Soft Sleeper provides passengers with larger space, better facility and cleaner environment. To get a more comfortable journey, we strongly suggest that you choose a Soft Sleeper. You will spend two nights and you can have better sleep in the Soft Sleeper Carriage. Check the following charts for more detailed information.

Comparison between Soft Sleeper and Hard Sleeper Chongqing to Lhasa Train

Notice: Since there are usually about 64 Soft Sleepers on each train to Tibet, so you’d better confirm your trip and book the train tickets as early as possible. Currently passenger can book the train ticket 30 days in advance.

Facilities on Chongqing to Lhasa Train – Life on the Train

How to choose the best Ticket class?

The soft sleeper provides more privacy and comfort with a sliding lockable door, which is highly recommended. It is a better choice if you travel with your family or friends, although it is more expensive.

While the hard sleeper is more affordable and easier to get. There are more hard sleepers offered on the train from Chongqing to Lhasa. However, the cabin of a hard sleeper has no independent door to close when tourists want to sleep.

What if your preferred Tickets get sold out?

Since the Chongqing-Lhasa train is very popular, if you happen to fail to get the ticket, don’t worry, there are 3 alternative plans for you.

Option 1: Choose another ticket class on the same train. If you miss the soft sleeper, you can book the hard sleeper ticket of the Chongqing-Lhasa Train.

Option 2: Take the bullet train from Chongqing to Chengdu to board the Chengdu to Lhasa Train the next day.

Option 3: Take a flight from Chongqing to Xining, and then head to Tibet by Xining to Lhasa train.

Altitude Change of Chongqing to Lhasa Train

Chongqing lies at 244 meters above sea level. The slight altitude change between Chongqing and Lanzhou will not cause discomfort to passengers.

After Lanzhou, the altitude climbs slowly and reaches 2,275 meters at Xining. Xining is the first station where altitude sickness is likely to occur for a few passengers.

The altitude starts to ascend and reaches 2,829 meters when arriving at Golmud at 18:49. The altitude increases sharply by more than 1,000 meters in less than 100 kilometers, causing altitude sickness for some passengers.

When arriving at the world’s highest railway pass, the Tanggula Pass (5,072m), most tourists will suffer from altitude sickness. Then, the altitude drops slowly as you travel south through Nagqu and finally reaches 3,650 meters in Lhasa.

After Xining, the altitude starts to ascend and reaches 2,829 meters when arriving at Golmud at 19:17. And the altitude increases sharply by more than 1,000 meters in less than 100 kilometers, causing altitude sickness for some passengers. When arriving at the world’ s highest railway pass, the Tanggula Pass (5,072m), most tourists will suffer from altitude sickness. Then, the altitude drops slowly as you travel south through Nagqu and finally reaches 3,650 meters in Lhasa.

Oxygen Supply and Altitude Sickness

Sometimes called “mountain sickness”, altitude sickness is a group of symptoms that can strike if you walk or climb to a higher altitude too quickly. Characterized by symptoms such as headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, altitude sickness is the biggest concern for traveling to Tibet.

Air-conditioning alone is not sufficient to make a cozy environment on the train to Tibet. The oxygen supply is the key element to ensure passengers' comfort and safety. There are two oxygen-supply systems on each train. One is used for increasing the oxygen level in the train, by temperature and air pressure controlling systems, when the train enters into the plateau zone. The other is directly used by passengers through an independent port. There are oxygen supply tubes and masks in each cabin for emergencies. Private oxygen masks are provided to every passenger, whatever ticket they have. In sleeping berth cars, you can find outlets on the wall beside the windows, while in seat cars, you can find outlets under your seat.

Train to Tibet Travel and Tibet Travel Permit:

Tibet Travel Permit, also called Tibet Entry Permit, is a necessity to visit Tibet. This permit is issued by Tibet Tourism Bureau only, and can be applied by travel agency behalf of travelers only. It takes about 8 ~ 20 days to get the permit usually.

Tibet Travel Permit is also a must to book the train or flight ticket and board the train from inland cities to Lhasa. Taking a train to Lhasa from Chongqing, you have to keep the original Tibet Travel Permit in hands. Sometimes, the Tibet Travel Permit is not required to book the ticket, but it’s hard to tell when is the “sometimes”. So do not hesitate to contact us for the up-dated information.

>> Learn more details about Tibet Travel Permit Application

How to Book Chongqing Lhasa Train Tickets

The train from Chongqing to Lhasa departs not daily, but every other day. Before booking the train ticket, you first need to check the schedule and fares to select your ticket.

Please note that trains depart from Chongqing and Chengdu, respectively. For example, when the Chongqing to Lhasa Train Z223 departs on even days (2, 4, 6...), the Chengdu to Lhasa Train will depart on odd days (1, 3, 5...).

Given this situation, if unfortunately, the Chongqing to Lhasa Train does not depart on your date or you miss the train, you can take the Chengdu to Lhasa train alternatively.

Book Tibet Train Ticket with Us is the Most Hassle-Free Way

As individual tourists, the best solution is to contact us and book a Chongqing-Lhasa train ticket through us. As the reliable local travel agency cooperating with the ticket office, we have more opportunities to get the Tibet train ticket.

Also, we provide “Train ticket + Tibet tour” packages, which not only include the train ticket to Tibet, but also the Tibet Travel Permit and a well-rounded Tibet tour.

Since we handle your Tibet travel permit processing and Tibet train ticket reservation together, we can respond in time to adjust your travel plan in case of any unexpected situation, such as the delayed issuance of the Tibet permit or sold-out tickets. We always have plan B to make you fulfill your dream of Tibet.

Notice: You can also book on your own through the official website 12306.cn, which is currently available in Chinese and English. Make sure you are registered as a member and have the appropriate Chinese online payment method (Alipay, WeChat, etc.)

How to Get to Chongqing North Railway Station

Chongqing West Railway Station (重庆西站) is located at No.168, Fengzhong Road, Shapingba District, Chongqing, China1.

Metro to Chongqing West Railway Station:

You can take Metro Line 5 or the Loop Line to reach Chongqing West Railway Station.

From Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG):

Take Metro Line 10 from Terminal 2 or Terminal 3 to the South Square of Chongqing North Railway Station, then switch to the Loop Line to Chongqing West Railway Station4.

Alternatively, you can take the airport express Line K06.

Taxi to Chongqing West Railway Station:

The taxi fare from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport to Chongqing West Railway Station is approximately RMB 90 - 110.

Arrival: How to get around from Lhasa Railway Station?

At Lhasa Train Station, you'll find a variety of transportation options to choose from. These include taxis for convenient travel, buses for city routes, minibuses for shared transportation, pedicabs for a unique and eco-friendly experience, as well as E-Bicycle rentals for self-paced exploration.

What to See on Chongqing to Lhasa Train?

Embarking on the train journey from Chongqing to Lhasa offers a picturesque experience, showcasing some of China's most stunning landscapes. What you see on Chongqing to Lhasa Train somewhat depends on Your Time to visit Tibet. Here is a breakdown of the highlight scenery you can expect to see along the way:

Qinghai Lake

As you near Qinghai Province, you will be greeted by the immense beauty of Qinghai Lake(青海湖), one of the largest saltwater lakes globally. The lake's mesmerizing turquoise waters and the majestic snow-capped mountains form a breathtaking scenery along the train route.

If you happen to travel during the summer months of July or August, you might be fortunate enough to witness the blooming of vibrant yellow rapeseed flowers. These blossoms create a captivating spectacle, covering the surrounding hills and valleys in a colorful carpet. The flowers are a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world each year.

Tuotuohe National Scenic Area:

During your train journey from Lanzhou to Lhasa, you will have the opportunity to witness the scenic beauty of Tuotuohe (Mar Qu, Ulan Moron, 沱沱河) National Scenic Area. As the train passes by the Tuotuohe River, which meanders through this picturesque area, you will be treated to awe-inspiring vistas of snow-capped mountains, verdant meadows, and the shimmering turquoise waters of the river. The optimal time to admire the scenery of Tuotuohe from the train is in the morning, when the sun illuminates the landscape.

The train travels through Tuotuohe National Scenic Area for approximately 15-20 minutes, offering a relatively brief but captivating experience. The closest proximity to the scenic area occurs when the train is traveling in an easterly direction.

Delingha: Colorful Landscape Chongqing to Lhasa Train Ride Through

The Delingha (德令哈) region of Qinghai Province in China offers a remarkable blend of natural landscapes, from serene lakes to towering mountains, making it a picturesque destination for train journeys. In the Delingha region, red willows and Danxia landforms are often found together. This creates a unique and visually stunning landscape. As the train passes through this region, you will be treated to views of red willows silhouetted against a backdrop of colorful Danxia landforms along the Qinghai-Tibet railway.

Lhasa River: Tibet Train Ride Right along side with It

The Lhasa River (拉萨河) is renowned as one of the five major tributaries of the Yarlung Zangbo River (雅鲁藏布江). Translated from Tibetan, "Yarlung Zangbo" means "snow water from high mountains."

During the train ride from Chongqing to Lhasa, you will have the opportunity to catch glimpses of the Lhasa River. The train passes through multiple sections where the river flows, with the closest proximity occurring between Delingha and Lhasa. At certain points, the train even runs parallel to the river, providing captivating views of its pristine waters.

How to Shorten the Chongqing Lhasa Train Travel

It is a long train journey between Chongqing and Lhasa which takes as long as about 43 hours. If you want to shorten this long travel and just experience the essential part, take a flight from Chongqing to Xining instead of train, taking just 2 hours and 5 minutes. In fact, scenery along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway (connecting Xining and Lhasa) is the highlights of the whole journey. As you board on Xining, you can have a stay and explore the famous attraction (Taer Monastery and Qinghai Lake) and have some local food. What’s more, the stay in Xining allows you to adapt of higher altitude (2,200~3200m) before Lhasa (3,700m). In addition, it’s much easier to book a ticket with better seat or berth, because all trains to Lhasa from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Chongqing will have a stop at Xining Railway Station.

How to choose the Chongqing to Lhasa by train or Lhasa to Chongqing

Generally speaking, train from Chongqing to Lhasa and train from Lhasa to Chongqing both offer you an unforgettable journey because you will have a visual treatment. Lhasa-Chongqing Train enjoys the similar schedule with Chongqing-Lhasa Train. The trains will pass through the same attraction in daytime or at night. As a result, there won’t be great difference between the sceneries along the railway you can see. You can enjoy the numerous mountains covered with green trees in Nanchong, Guangyuan and Baoji. As you come to Gansu, the scenery will be quite different. You must be amazed by the splendid spectacle of the Yellow River. In the summer, you may be lucky to see some beautiful sunflowers. While passing through Qinghai, you won’t miss charming Qinghai Lake. Close to Delingha, you can see the fertile farmland and emerald forest belt. Then you will traverse two lakes and enjoy the enchanting lake views. However, Chongqing-Lhasa Train and Lhasa-Chongqing Train also enjoy different advantages.

If you want to have an up-stream Yangtze River Cruise (Yichang to Chongqing), you’d better choose a train to Lhasa from Chongqing after your cruise tour. From Chongqing to Lhasa, you will get an opportunity to adapt the plateau climate and high altitude gradually. Some tourists like to choose Tibet as their epilogue of China and fly to Kathmandu directly after the Tibet tour. So they need to have a train journey first.

If you aim to take a down-stream Yangtze River Cruise (Chongqing to Yichang), train from Lhasa to Chongqing is recommended. In addition, it’s much easier to book a ticket of train from Lhasa to Chongqing and choose the seat you prefer. If there isn’t any Chongqing-Lhasa trains ticket available, try Lhasa-Chongqing train.

FAQs of Chongqing to Lhasa Train

Where to recharge your mobile phones and electronic devices?

The powerplugfor chargers are located in the corridors OR under your table inthe cabin with the 4 soft sleepers (in between the 2 lower bunks).

Can touristshave shower in the train?

Unfortunately, there is no shower room in the train.Dobring some wet wipesin stores anda smalltowel, and small but equally important thing:toilet/tissue paper.

Is it possible to swap ticket with other people to stay with friends or family inthe same cabin?

Yes. It is acceptable.You may ask conductor to swaptickets with other passengers to stay with your family or friends.

Is smoking allowed in the cabin?

Smoking is strictly forbidden in the trainas thetrain is tightly sealed and pressurized and oxygen is pumped into the carriagewhen the train ascends to extreme altitude. It would be devastating if thetrain caught fire.

Is it necessary to carry Tibet Travel Permit all the time?

Make sure you have your passport, Tibet Travel Permit andticket with youas you could be checked many times during the longjourney.

It is advisable to havemany copies of Tibet Travel Permit.

How can we minimize the effect of altitude sickness?

The effect of altitude sickness onpassengers varies. Yet, to minimize or ease the impact of altitude sickness,one mayprepare somealtitude sickness tabletsbefore boarding the train and take some whenthe train climbs to plateau. There is no need to worry too much thealtitude sickness, the train is built withoxygen suppley system. It is easy to use.

How to Plan a Chongqing to Lhasa Train Tour

Embarking on a train journey from Chongqing to Lhasa is highly recommended and guarantees a fulfilling experience. This route is among the shortest paths from the inner mainland of China to Tibet, showcasing magnificent landscapes and providing an opportunity for cultural immersion. The Qinghai-Tibet Railway, renowned as the world's highest railway, offers breathtaking scenery and allows passengers to leisurely admire the landscapes from the train.

For those visiting Tibet (Xizang) for the first time, it is advisable to allocate 7 to 15 days to fully appreciate the history, culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes of the region. Chongqing serves as an excellent starting point due to its convenient connections, rich cultural heritage, and well-developed infrastructure.

Explore Tibet with Travel Tibet China

With more than 10 years of local expertise in Lhasa and Tibet, our dedicated team at travel tibet china brings you carefully curated Tibet tours for an authentic and unforgettable experience.

Drawing upon our extensive experience, we have meticulously crafted a range of Tibet tour packages, including Lhasa tours, Mount Everest Tours, Mount Kailash Tours, Tibet Trekking Tours, Tibet Train Tours, and Tibet Overland Tours. Whether you prefer the comfort and flexibility of a private tour or the budget-friendly option of a group tour, we have you covered without compromising on quality.